Texas A&M University’s response to a state law banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) on college campuses has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the future of such practices in Texas universities. In the wake of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signing the law in June 2023, documents obtained by Fox News Digital revealed that Texas A&M took steps to reassign DEI employees to other departments, including giving the department head a raise before reassigning her.
Annie McGowan, the vice president for diversity at Texas A&M, received a 10% raise, a new position, and a nine-month paid leave following the passage of the DEI ban. The move has led to fears that universities in Texas are attempting to embed DEI practices into various departments despite the new law.
Critics of the university’s actions, such as Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, chairman of Do No Harm, have expressed concerns about the prioritization of DEI ideology over academic excellence. They argue that the reassignment of DEI officials to other administrative roles is an attempt to circumvent the law and continue promoting divisive practices.
Despite the controversy, Texas A&M has maintained its commitment to incorporating DEI principles through its faculty. University President Mark A. Welsh emphasized the importance of diversity of thought and the institution’s dedication to maintaining a welcoming environment for all.
The reassignment of DEI employees and the university’s response to the new law have drawn scrutiny from lawmakers and advocates for academic excellence. Republican State Sen. Brandon Creighton and State Rep. Brian Harrison have warned against attempts to skirt the legislation and continue promoting DEI practices at the taxpayers’ expense.
In response to the backlash, a Texas A&M University spokesperson clarified that the raise given to McGowan was based on merit and fairness, not related to DEI practices. The university emphasized its commitment to upholding the law and eliminating DEI-related job duties across the campus.
As the debate over DEI practices in Texas universities continues, Republican lawmakers are working to ensure that the anti-DEI law is enforced and that universities do not circumvent its provisions. The controversy surrounding Texas A&M’s response to the DEI ban highlights the ongoing tensions between promoting diversity and inclusion and upholding academic standards in higher education.
